I'm not super knowledgeable I'm afraid, especially when it comes to light commuter type bikes because I'm a mountain bike guy. It is possible to save money and still get a great bike by buying something used, but maybe not the best idea if you don't know what you're looking for unless you can find someone knowledgeable to help you in your search. Sometimes people buy bikes and never really get around to using them, and then they sell them cheap even though they're in really good condition. So yeah, if you could find someone who knows a little bit about bikes to check them out with you, that's one option.
Fixed gear bikes or "fixies" seem to be popular at the moment. I don't know anything about them except that they seem to be cheaper and lighter, so they work well for some people.
I agree with idlethreat about Giant, I've had good experiences with Giant bikes. Of course there are loads of other great brands too!
I'm not super knowledgeable I'm afraid, especially when it comes to light commuter type bikes because I'm a mountain bike guy. It is possible to save money and still get a great bike by buying something used, but maybe not the best idea if you don't know what you're looking for unless you can find someone knowledgeable to help you in your search. Sometimes people buy bikes and never really get around to using them, and then they sell them cheap even though they're in really good condition. So yeah, if you could find someone who knows a little bit about bikes to check them out with you, that's one option.
Fixed gear bikes or "fixies" seem to be popular at the moment. I don't know anything about them except that they seem to be cheaper and lighter, so they work well for some people.
I agree with idlethreat about Giant, I've had good experiences with Giant bikes. Of course there are loads of other great brands too!
Also aluminum is nice, it doesn't rust :D